What it is – How it works

Self-Employment Program – What is it?

Community Futures’ Self Employment Program is a strategic combination of one-on-one assistance, workshops, mentoring, and specialty counselling. Our primary objective is to help you a make well-thought-out, lasting transition from unemployment or under- employment to self-employment.

Another former client had this to say.

“Community Futures has been an important mentor as I made the transition from being a seasonal employee to being a full-time publisher. Without their support and guidance, the Valley Voice would be a pale shadow of what it is today.” Dan Nicholson, publisher, The Valley Voice

Through this 48 week program you will receive instruction and support while developing your business plan. You will receive ongoing training, support and business coaching while you start and run your business. And if eligible, you may also receive financial support for the duration of the program.

There is also potential financial assistance for dependent care and travel while you participate in the 10 week Business Plan Development Program.

Our experience with thousands of entrepreneurs has taught us – Success is made, not born – If you have the raw materials – a good product or idea, determination, and passion – we provide the practical training, one-on-one coaching, support and guidance to help you start and run a successful business.

How it works

The 48 week Self-Employment program is broken into two components. During the first 10 weeks of the program you attend approximately one interactive workshop per week. We are also there to guide you to success through one on one counselling and support while you research and develop a thorough business plan. Workshops cover business topics such as:

After what will seem like a very short 10 weeks, you will start your business. During the next 38 weeks we’re still here helping you with one on one coaching and support, relevant training workshops, and yes, some hand holding!

Income benefits (*for up to 48 weeks) to assist new entrepreneurs with their personal living expenses while they’re establishing their businesses may be available to those currently receiving employment Insurance (EI) or who have had an EI claim in the past three years or a maternity/parental claim in the past five years and have not re-entered the workforce.

For others who are applying for the program, please discuss financial supports with your Case Manager at your local WorkBC Employment Services Centre.

Income earned by the business can then be reinvested back into the business allowing it to become self-sufficient once the funding ends.

*Further, more detailed information about the financial support the program offers will be covered during the orientation, or feel free to give us a call.

The Self-Employment Program, supported by the Canada-British Columbia Labour Market Agreement, helps people who are unemployed and wish to start their own business.

Success Stories

About Community Futures

Community Futures Central Kootenay is a not-for-profit community economic development organization, committed to helping people in the Central Kootenay region who are either operating or are planning to start their own business.